Chapter - 1 Natural Resources and Their Use (Class - 8th New Syllabus)

 Chapter - 1 

Natural Resources and Their Use

NCERT QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

Q.1- What can make what is today a renewable resource nonrenewable tomorrow? Describe some actions that can prevent this from happening. 

Answer:- A resource becomes "non-renewable" when we use it up faster than nature can replace it. Even though resources like water, forests, and soil are renewable, they can be exhausted if we aren't careful.

1. How a Renewable Resource Becomes Non-Renewable

• Overuse: If we pump groundwater from a well faster than rain can refill it, the well eventually runs dry.
• Pollution: If we dump chemicals into a fresh river, that water is no longer usable for drinking or farming, effectively "using it up."
• Deforestation: If we cut down entire forests without replanting, the trees cannot regrow fast enough to maintain the ecosystem, leading to soil erosion and loss of the resource.

2. Actions to Prevent This

• Sustainable Use: Using resources at a slow, steady pace so nature has time to catch up (e.g., following fishing quotas).
• The 3 R’s: Reducing waste, Reusing items, and Recycling materials to take the pressure off raw natural resources.
• Afforestation: Planting more trees to replace the ones we cut down.
• Water Harvesting: Using techniques like rainwater harvesting to refill underground water levels (aquifers).
• Preventing Pollution: Treating factory waste before it enters water bodies to keep the renewable supply clean.

Q.2- Name five ecosystem functions that serve humans.

Answer:- Five important ecosystem functions that serve humans.

Provision of food:- Ecosystems provide food like fruits, vegetables, grains, fish, and meat.

Supply of fresh water:- Natural ecosystems (rivers, lakes, forests) help store and provide clean drinking water.

Air purification:- Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to keep the air clean.

Climate regulation:- Ecosystems help control temperature, rainfall, and reduce the effects of climate change.

Soil formation and fertility:- Decomposition of plants and animals enriches soil, making it suitable for agriculture.

Q.3- What are renewable resources? How are they different from non-renewable ones? What can people do to ensure that renewable resources continue to be available for our use and that of future generations? Give two examples.

Answer:- Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished or regenerated naturally in a short period of time. Examples: Sunlight, wind, water, forests

Difference from Non-Renewable Resources

• Renewable: These are "infinite" or inexhaustible if managed well. They have a continuous supply.
• Non-Renewable: These are "finite" and take millions of years to form (e.g., coal, petroleum). Once used up, they cannot be replaced in a human lifespan.

How to Ensure Future Availability:- To keep these resources available for future generations, people must practice Sustainable Development. This means using resources carefully so they aren't depleted or polluted.

Two Examples of Actions:

• Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater to recharge groundwater levels so we don't run out of fresh water.
• Afforestation: Planting new trees for every tree cut down to ensure our forest cover and timber supply remain steady.

Question. 4- Identify cultural practices in your home and neighbourhood that point to mindfulness in the use of natural resources. 

Answer:- In many homes and neighbourhoods, everyday traditions show a deep respect for nature. Here are some common cultural practices that demonstrate mindfulness in using resources:

At Home

• Saving food – Cooking only what is needed and not wasting food.
• Using water carefully – Turning off taps, reusing water (e.g., washing vegetables water for plants).
• Using cloth bags – Avoiding plastic and using reusable bags.
• Switching off electricity – Turning off lights, fans, and appliances when not in use.
• Reusing old items – Using old clothes as cleaning cloths or containers for storage.

In Neighbourhood

• Planting and protecting trees – Celebrating tree plantation drives.
• Community water conservation – Using rainwater harvesting systems.
• Cleanliness drives – Keeping surroundings clean to reduce pollution.
• Festivals with eco-friendly practices – Using natural decorations, clay idols instead of harmful materials.
• Sharing resources – Sharing tools or items instead of buying new ones.

Quetions.5- What are some considerations to keep in mind in the production of goods for our current use? 

Answer:- When producing goods for today, we must balance our current needs with the health of the planet. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Sustainable use of resources:- Use natural resources carefully so that they are not exhausted and remain available for future generations.

2. Conservation of energy:- Use energy-efficient methods and prefer renewable sources like solar and wind energy.

 3. Minimum wastage:- Reduce waste during production and make use of by-products wherever possible.

4. Pollution control:- Avoid air, water, and soil pollution by using clean and eco-friendly technologies.

5. Use of eco-friendly materials:-  Prefer biodegradable and recyclable materials instead of harmful ones like plastics.

6. Recycling and reuse:- Encourage the use of recycled materials and reuse products to reduce pressure on natural resources.